And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common. Acts 2.42-45
Like so many families, the kitchen table was the heart of our home when I was growing up. No matter which house we lived in, the kitchen table was always the place where we did much more than eat snacks and family meals. We practiced our spelling words, solved countless math equations, and wrote dozens upon dozens of term papers (yep, on ruled paper with pen, in cursive with no mistakes allowed!). We played all kinds of games (even “table tennis” to our mother’s horror). Gifts were wrapped and fabric cut-out for sewing projects. Mom’s kitchen table is still the center of her home, experientially if not dimensionally. The topics of conversation have, of course, matured over the years. From hearing Dad’s stories of his youthful adventures to sharing of our own and eventually our children’s and, now, grandchildren’s misadventures, that table represents gathering for sustenance and connection and purpose.
You may not realize that there is a family kitchen table environment happening every Sunday at our church. The church kitchen serves as the “green room” for the team of volunteers and staff serving that morning. In appreciation of our Sunday team being in-house through two worship services, we provide some simple breakfast bagels with occasional home-baked goods. There regularly is also conversation and connection happening amongst our servant-hearted volunteers. Shared food and shared stories. Sustenance and connection and purpose – community.
So the next time you hear laughter from the kitchen on Sunday morning and wish you were a part … just know there is a spot for you too. Come and join the team! There are so many options to choose from, surely you’ll find your niche in music and production (the computer geeky stuff) or Fireside Coffee. Or the Kids’ Ministries – cuddle an infant, giggle with a toddler, sing off-key with a kindergartener, or play Bible trivia with third graders. Whatever is your sweet spot, there is a child wishing you were hanging with them on Sunday. Did I mention there’s a family kitchen table for you too? Come be a part of reaching people with the love of Jesus, for the love of Jesus.
See you Sunday! Blessings, Colleen
A generous person will prosper, whoever refreshes others will themselves be refreshed. Proverbs 11.25